Mas Des Infermieres Ridley Scott’s Domaine in Provence

Before we bought the house here, I used to get my ‘fix’ of Provence and the Luberon, reading Peter Mayle’s ‘A Year in Provence’ and watching the film ‘A Good Year’, based on one of his books, and set all around the area that we love so much.

Directed by Ridley Scott, it’s a step away from his other work, as he directed Alien and Blade Runner, as well as Gladiator and Black Hawk Down, which I have to admit, are not my normal viewing. But he has a house here in the Luberon, and his direction of ‘A Good Year’ is just a delight, making the most of the exquisite light and views that have drawn so many of us here. He captures the essence of the valley in a way that makes it feel as if you can step out of reality for a short time into the colour, scents and atmosphere of this little corner of Provence that we love so much. Continue reading here for the original contributor blog post by: Vaucluse Dreamer.

Mas Des Infermieres
1575 Rte du Four Neuf
84580 Oppède, France
Instagram @mas_des_infermieres
30 hectares of Grenache and Syrah vines

Guided tours are available but should be booked in advance.

Explore the Luberon Villages

Ansouis sits in the heart of the Luberon, surrounded by vineyards and endless olive trees. Walk the narrow laneways to the top of the village, by the church, for expansive views of the Grand Luberon range and the Durance River Valley. Physically elevated above the main route between Aix-en-Provence and Apt, the fortified hamlet’s residents saw movement in the area during the Middle Ages.

Gordes: The first time we visited Gordes was over 30 years ago, on that first trip to Provence, when we fell in love with the area, which sparked our desire to live here one day. Back then, the village was just as beautiful and the views just as spectacular, but looking back at the photos, it certainly wasn’t as polished as it is now.

Lourmarin is a beautiful village and is a lovely little place to explore, with its narrow cobbled streets, pretty houses and beautifully restored chateau. It has always been one of my favourite places to pass a morning, especially on a Friday, when the plane-tree shaded streets are closed to traffic and the market sets up, filling the central square and roadways with a diverse collection of stalls. Visiting the Lourmarin market is always a lovely way to spend a Friday morning.

Ménerbes: The village of Ménerbes is well-deserving of the “les Plus Beaux Villages de France” label. After visiting hilltop Ménerbes, it is easy to understand why the Luberon and this town have enchanted so many. The charming main street compels you to pause. Take some time and wander through an art gallery or enjoy a drink at one of the restaurants.

Oppede le Vieux: The old village (le Vieux) is at the top of a hill, making for a good workout, even on an e-bike. At first glance, there is not much to this perched village. However, the ruins of a feudal castle and a 12th-century collegiate church are worth seeing. Then look closer to see the evidence of quality restorations of 15th and 16th-century homes. What is behind those walls remains a secret, but it’s inevitable that the owners like the quiet village precisely this way.